Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 June 2026

Showing 751-800 of 1,505 articles

Indonesia explores bid to host COP18 biodiversity summit

Indonesia is exploring a bid to host the COP18 biodiversity summit, with Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat highlighting the country's potential to lead in conservation-based financing. The plan, discussed during London Climate Week, includes advancing a biodiversity credit scheme to link ecosystem protection with economic benefits. International partners have welcomed the initiative, which could position Indonesia as a pioneer in global conservation finance.

35 Indonesian Marine Personnel Ready for Action at RIMPAC 2026

Thirty-five Indonesian Marine Corps personnel have arrived in Hawaii to participate in the multilateral Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026 exercise. The deployment aims to strengthen military ties with regional partners and enhance the professional capacity of the troops. Prior to departure, the soldiers conducted preparatory training in Indonesia, including marksmanship and air mobility operations.

Prabowo to Launch New B50 Biodiesel Fuel in July 2026

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to inaugurate Indonesia's new B50 biodiesel, a fuel blend containing 50 per cent palm oil, on 1 July 2026. The government will allow a three-month transition period for the market to exhaust existing B40 stocks before the new fuel is distributed nationally. Pricing for the B50 blend will follow the existing monthly diesel price formula.

Budget Efficiency at BGN Continues, Purbaya Reveals Significant Savings

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced that the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is preparing further significant budget efficiencies for its programmes, including the Free Nutritious Meals initiative. The savings will not compromise the quality or portions of the meals, with the government instead planning to improve human resources by hiring more nutritionists. The Ministry of Finance will also bolster oversight by deploying its regional staff to monitor the programme's operational units.

AI Can Write Code, So What Is the Programmer's Task?

The rise of generative AI has sparked concerns about the future of programming jobs, but the real shift is a redefinition of the programmer's role rather than its elimination. While AI can generate code, it lacks the human capacity for understanding business goals, strategic thinking, and ethical considerations. The future belongs to professionals who can leverage AI to solve complex problems and drive innovation.

Gerindra Legislator Oversees Cikawung River Embankment Construction in Cilacap

Construction of a flood protection embankment along the Cikawung River in Cilacap, Central Java, has commenced with an APBN budget of approximately Rp11 billion. The project, championed by Gerindra Party legislator Dr. Hj. Novita Wijayanti, aims to protect residential areas and farmland in Sidasari Village from seasonal flooding. The 1.5-kilometre development includes gabion installations at critical points and is currently in the material delivery and land preparation phase.

Panda Bond Issuance Delayed to End of July, Purbaya Reveals Reasons

The Indonesian government has postponed its planned Panda bond issuance from early to late July 2026 due to a surge in interest from Chinese investors. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated the delay was requested by investors who needed more time to secure internal approvals, which is expected to boost the final uptake.

Living Longer: AI Drives Transformation in Preventive Healthcare

Indonesia is witnessing a shift from curative to preventive healthcare, driven by growing public awareness and advanced technology. The introduction of 'Longevity 5.0' by Borderless Healthcare Group integrates AI, cloud computing, and precision medicine to offer personalised, long-term health management. This approach aims to help Indonesians live healthier and more productive lives through gender-specific platforms and a continuum of care extending from clinics to homes.

KPK to Expand Probe into Foreigner Residency Permit Extortion Beyond Jakarta and Bali

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is expanding its investigation into an alleged extortion scheme involving residency permits for foreign nationals, targeting areas with high concentrations of foreigners beyond Jakarta and Bali. The case, which has already ensnared former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim, involves an estimated illicit gain of Rp145.5 billion. Investigators plan to scrutinise processes at immigration offices in other regions to uncover the full extent of the racket.

Indonesia declines IMF loan, cites strong fiscal position

Indonesia has turned down a US$20-30 billion loan offer from the International Monetary Fund, with officials stating the country's economic fundamentals are robust enough to not require emergency financing. Finance Ministry representatives noted that Indonesia already holds nearly US$25 billion in reserves, making the IMF's risk-mitigation facility unnecessary at this time. The decision underscores the government's confidence in its fiscal stability amid global economic uncertainties.

Business Strategy Shifts, ESG Now a Decisive Factor

Sustainability has become a core business strategy influencing corporate development across sectors. A recent forum highlighted the need for entrepreneurs to integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles with innovation to ensure long-term growth. Industry leaders from Pegadaian, academia, and the beauty sector shared insights on how combining entrepreneurship with sustainability creates lasting value.

Transjakarta to Close Routes 1N and 10D, CEO Explains Rationale

PT Transportasi Jakarta (Transjakarta) will discontinue bus routes 1N and 10D from 1 July 2026 following a routine operational evaluation. The company's CEO stated the adjustment aims to optimise fleet deployment and reduce waiting times on busier corridors. Alternative travel routes have been prepared to ensure continued public access to all facilities along the affected lines.

Indonesia declines IMF loan, cites strong fiscal position

Indonesia has politely declined an emergency financing offer from the International Monetary Fund, asserting that its economy remains robust and under control. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa noted the country already holds nearly US$25 billion in reserves, matching the amount the IMF had prepared for nations affected by global uncertainty. Officials emphasised that accepting the facility would have signalled a high-risk condition, which does not reflect Indonesia's current strong fiscal standing.

287 Foreign Nationals Named Suspects in Hayam Wuruk Online Gambling Den Case

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has named 287 foreign nationals as suspects following a raid on an online gambling syndicate operating from West Jakarta. The suspects hail from China, Vietnam, Myanmar, and several other Southeast Asian nations. Authorities have seized electronic devices and cash totalling approximately Rp8.7 billion, and are now tracing the flow of funds for potential money laundering charges.

Purbaya Says National Nutrition Agency to Implement Further Budget Efficiency

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa revealed that the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is preparing further budget efficiency measures for its programmes. The plan was conveyed by BGN Head Nanik S Deyang, with Purbaya noting the savings would be significant but not affect the free nutritious meal programme. The Ministry of Finance will also deploy its regional staff to help monitor the programme's operational units.

Roles of 287 Foreign Nationals Suspected in Hayam Wuruk Online Gambling Den: From IT to Trainees

Indonesian National Police have detailed the roles of 287 foreign nationals arrested in connection with a major online gambling operation in West Jakarta. The suspects, predominantly from Vietnam and China, handled customer service, IT, marketing, and financial transactions for a network allegedly managing over 145 gambling websites. The syndicate's detected deposits reportedly reached Rp 13.9 trillion.

Prabowo Monitors Deaths of Prospective Village Cooperative Managers During Military Training

President Prabowo Subianto is closely monitoring the deaths of three prospective village cooperative managers who died during basic military training. The government is conducting a joint evaluation to determine if there was any procedural negligence, though preliminary reports suggest the deaths were due to health factors. The training is part of a broader programme to prepare managers for the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives.

Indonesian Navy Strengthens Defence Cooperation with Pakistan Navy

The Indonesian Navy's Second Fleet Command hosted a delegation from the Pakistan Navy in Surabaya to discuss maritime strategic developments and enhance bilateral defence cooperation. The meeting aimed to strengthen communication and exchange views on safeguarding territorial waters, though specific details of the cooperation were not disclosed.

Collaboration in Facing the Impacts of Climate Change in Indonesia

A national seminar highlighted that climate resilience in Indonesia requires collaboration between government, communities, and the private sector. The Ministry of Environment has prioritised climate adaptation, integrating local solutions from areas like Pekalongan and Bulukumba into national policy. The Adaptation Fund emphasised that successful adaptation depends on locally tailored solutions and strong local ownership.

Indonesia Reportedly Eyeing Pakistani Jets, Ambassador Says They Are Battle-Proven

Pakistan's ambassador to Indonesia has confirmed strong defence collaboration between the two nations amid reports Jakarta is considering purchasing JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. The envoy highlighted the combat-proven capabilities of Pakistan's aerospace technology, citing recent air combat successes. The potential procurement is viewed as part of Indonesia's strategy to diversify its defence partners and pursue technology transfer.

IMCF and Ministry of Transportation Strengthen Collaboration for Indonesian Seafarers' Welfare

The Indonesia Maritime Community Forum (IMCF) and the Ministry of Transportation have reinforced their partnership to enhance the welfare, protection, and competence of Indonesian seafarers during the 2026 Day of the Seafarer commemoration. Compensation was awarded to the families of three seafarers who perished on duty, underscoring a shared responsibility for those serving as the frontline of national connectivity and global trade. The government also reaffirmed its commitment to improving certification systems, digitalising services, and upholding international standards for the nation's 1.6 million seafarers.

Former South Korean First Lady Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Influence Peddling

A South Korean court has sentenced former First Lady Kim Keon Hee to seven years in prison for accepting luxury gifts in exchange for securing official positions. The 53-year-old, already serving a four-year term for stock manipulation and bribery, was found guilty of receiving high-value jewellery and a luxury watch. The case adds to the political turmoil surrounding her husband, former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was impeached and imprisoned following his controversial martial law declaration.

Startups Urged to Strengthen Legal Foundations

Legal compliance is increasingly vital for business resilience and growth, with legal-tech firm Documenta Technology urging startups to treat legal architecture as a core strategic pillar rather than a reactive administrative task. The call was made during the 285th Startup Klinik forum, where the concept of 'The Legal Expansion Architect' was introduced to integrate legal considerations into every phase of company growth. The discussion also highlighted how technology can streamline compliance and support data-driven decision-making for expanding businesses.

Bareskrim Names 291 Suspects in International Online Gambling Case in Hayam Wuruk, Dominated by Vietnamese Nationals

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has named 291 suspects in a major international online gambling syndicate operating from West Jakarta. The group, predominantly composed of Vietnamese nationals, was found to be running at least 145 gambling websites with a recorded deposit turnover of approximately IDR 13.9 trillion. Authorities are deepening their investigation into the financial flows with the assistance of the PPATK and OJK.

Evacuation of 11,000 Seafarers in Strait of Hormuz Suspended

The International Maritime Organization has suspended the planned mass evacuation of over 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz following a projectile attack on a Singapore-flagged cargo ship. The incident has reignited security fears along the critical energy trade artery, with US officials reportedly blaming Iran for the strike. The delay deals a blow to hundreds of vessels and their crews who have been trapped in the region since the US-Israel conflict with Iran erupted in February.

KPK to Investigate Foreign National Hubs Beyond Jakarta and Bali

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is expanding its investigation into an alleged extortion scheme involving residence permits for foreign nationals. The anti-graft body will scrutinise immigration offices in other regions with high concentrations of foreigners, following initial operations in Jakarta and Bali. The case has already ensnared former senior immigration officials, including a former deputy minister, with suspects allegedly amassing Rp145.5 billion in illicit gains.

Government Cash Reaches Rp 590 T, Purbaya: Too Much!

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that the government's cash reserves have reached Rp 590 trillion, a level he considers excessive. To stimulate the economy amid tightening liquidity, the government plans to shift a significant portion of these idle funds into state-owned banks. The total placement in Himbara banks is expected to reach Rp 400 trillion by the end of the year.

Indonesia Moves Towards Sustainable Nature-Based Conservation Financing

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni announced Indonesia is developing a new paradigm for conservation financing that reduces reliance on public funds by attracting credible private investment. The government has established a task force targeting financial independence for 13 national parks and two iconic species conservation landscapes by 2030. The strategy includes introducing 'Natural Ecosystems as a New Asset Class' and developing instruments such as carbon credits, biodiversity credits, and conservation bonds.

Purbaya Disburses Rp 1.96 Trillion to Three Global Financial Institutions

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has allocated an additional Rp 1.96 trillion from the 2026 state budget to increase Indonesia's investment in three international financial institutions. The funds are directed towards the Islamic Development Bank, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, and the International Development Association. The move aims to secure long-term economic and social benefits for the nation's prosperity.

UNM Lecturer Qualifies for ILP 2026, Develops AI Resume Reader to Prepare Students for Careers

A lecturer from Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) has been selected for the national Inspiring Lecturer Program (ILP) 2026 with a proposal to develop an AI-powered tool that analyses student resumes. The 'Intelligent Resume Analyzer' uses machine learning to provide objective feedback and targeted recommendations, aiming to improve graduate competitiveness. The programme attracted nearly 6,000 applicants from across Indonesia, highlighting the innovation's potential impact on higher education.

Analyst Suggests Free Nutritious Meal Programme Be Strengthened with Local Government Involvement

A public policy analyst has called for the National Nutrition Agency to bolster the role of regional governments in the Free Nutritious Meal programme. Trubus Rahardiansah argues that participation from local leaders and councils is crucial for improving oversight and ensuring the programme's economic benefits reach local communities. He highlighted concerns over centralisation and the procurement of supplies from outside the target areas.

Rupiah Edges Slightly Stronger, US Dollar Exchange Rate Falls to Rp17,905

The Indonesian rupiah staged a late recovery to close marginally stronger against the US dollar on Friday, reversing earlier losses that had pushed it close to the Rp18,000 psychological threshold. The modest gain was supported by a weakening US dollar index in global markets. The government also highlighted plans to issue Panda Bonds as part of a diversification strategy to reduce reliance on the US dollar for state financing.

Pertamina Pride Still in Strait of Hormuz, Crisis Centre on 24-Hour Alert

PT Pertamina continues to monitor its VLCC Pertamina Pride, which remains in the Strait of Hormuz area, prioritising safety amid regional tensions. The state-owned energy firm has activated a 24-hour crisis centre and is coordinating with Indonesia's Foreign Ministry and embassy in Iran. Meanwhile, another Pertamina vessel, Gamsunoro, has successfully navigated the strategic waterway.

Police Arrest 69 Suspects in Timezone Gambling Ring, Seize Rp 1.3 Billion and Gold

Jakarta police have apprehended 69 individuals involved in an illegal gambling operation disguised as Timezone arcades in North and West Jakarta. The syndicate, which included owners, employees, and players, reportedly generated an estimated monthly turnover of Rp 2.1 billion. Authorities seized Rp 1.31 billion in cash, 21.9 grams of gold, and 139 gambling machines during the raids.

Banten Provincial Government Optimises Horticulture to Supply Raw Materials for Free Nutritious Meals Programme

The Banten provincial government is seeking to maximise its horticultural potential to become a primary supplier for the national Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Governor Andra Soni highlighted that despite Banten's strategic location near large consumer markets, the local horticultural sector's contribution remains minimal. The initiative aims to integrate local farmers and MSMEs into the programme's supply chain to stimulate the grassroots economy.

Minister: Journalistic Works Used Commercially Will Incur Royalties

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has announced that journalistic works distributed for commercial purposes will be subject to royalty payments under a proposed revision of the Copyright Law. The government aims to strengthen protections for the press industry by classifying journalism as a copyright object. The bill, already approved as a House initiative, is currently under discussion with a target to be finalised this year.

Metro Jaya Police Reveal Online Gambling App's Modus Operandi Using Pornographic Live Streams to Deceive Banking System

The Metro Jaya Regional Police have arrested eight individuals and five corporate entities linked to the HOT51 application, which allegedly combined online gambling, digital pornography, and money laundering. Investigators revealed the syndicate used virtual accounts managed by payment gateways to circumvent the national banking system. The case was uncovered through cyber patrols and a 'follow the money' asset tracing investigation.

Fatty Liver Increasingly Affects Those in Their 30s, Beware the Silent Killer

Fatty liver disease, once associated with older age, is now increasingly diagnosed in adults in their 30s, according to an IPB University lecturer. The condition, linked to metabolic disorders and rising obesity rates, often develops without clear symptoms but can lead to permanent liver damage. Experts stress that lifestyle changes, rather than medication, remain the most effective prevention and treatment.

Government to seriously evaluate free nutritious meal programme governance, prioritising 3B and 3T

The Indonesian government is undertaking a serious evaluation of its Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme to improve targeting, with a new focus on pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers (3B) as well as underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost regions (3T). The Head of the Government Communication Body stated that nutritional intervention for the 3B group is the most effective way to combat stunting. President Prabowo Subianto has mandated the new leadership of the National Nutrition Agency to restructure and strengthen the programme's governance, with input also being gathered from the National Economic Council based on a survey of 800 nutrition service units.

Perusahaan Lokal Presentasi Investasi di Depan Delegasi Asing

A Business-to-Business session was held in Makassar as part of the Indonesia Gastrodiplomacy Series 2026, facilitating rapid international investment meetings. Makassar Mayor Munafri Arifuddin received foreign delegations in a structured 15-minute meeting format, underscoring the city's active role in attracting foreign direct investment.

Taufik Hidayat, Recidivist in Torture Case, Previously Sentenced to 16 Months

Police have revealed that Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in the recent false imprisonment and torture of a woman in Bandung, is a repeat offender. He was previously convicted and sentenced to 16 months in prison for a similar assault in the same city. The victim in the current case is reportedly showing positive signs of recovery in hospital.

Bareskrim Uncovers Online Gambling Den in Hayam Wuruk Similar to Operations in Cambodia and Myanmar

Indonesian police have named 287 foreign nationals as suspects in a cross-border online gambling operation discovered in a West Jakarta building. The syndicate, which operated 145 gambling websites, reportedly relocated to Indonesia following crackdowns in other Southeast Asian nations. Authorities revealed the group used cryptocurrency and posed as a technology firm to conceal its illegal activities.

Pakistan Ambassador: Distrust Hinders US-Iran Peace

Pakistan's Ambassador to Indonesia, Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri, has identified deep-seated distrust as the primary obstacle to peace between the United States and Iran. Speaking in Jakarta, he emphasised Pakistan's mediating role in bridging the confidence gap and bringing both parties back to the negotiating table. The ambassador also noted that building consensus involves key regional stakeholders and welcomed the signing of a memorandum of understanding as a positive development.

Three SPPI Participants Die During Military Training, Presidential Staff Office Responds

The Presidential Staff Office has expressed condolences over the deaths of three participants in the Sarjana Penggerak Pembangun Indonesia (SPPI) programme during basic military training. Chief of Staff Dudung Abdurachman stated that no negligence has been found so far, suggesting underlying health conditions may have been a factor. An investigation is underway, but Dudung emphasised the importance of continuing the training programme to instil discipline and loyalty.

Qodari: Government Preparing Special Free Nutritious Meal Scheme for 3T Regions

The Indonesian government is developing a bespoke distribution scheme for its Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme to address the unique geographical and demographic challenges of the country's underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions. Muhammad Qodari, Head of the Government Communication Body, stated that the standard model of serving 2,000โ€“2,500 beneficiaries per kitchen is not optimal for sparsely populated areas. Options under review include utilising school canteens or other flexible alternatives to ensure the programme effectively combats stunting and improves human resources in these remote areas.

IPB: East Coast of Jambi a stopover site for intercontinental waterbirds

Research by IPB University has identified the East Coast of Jambi as a critical stopover for over 1,000 migratory shorebirds from East Asia to Australia, including three endangered species. The site, designated as an Essential Ecosystem Area, serves as a vital foraging and resting ground between August and April. Its protection is deemed strategic not only for biodiversity but also for sustaining coastal livelihoods and mitigating climate change impacts.

Komnas HAM Receives 151 Torture Complaints, Urges Strengthened Prevention

Indonesia's National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has called for stronger inter-agency collaboration to prevent torture, having received 151 complaints between January 2024 and May 2026. The alleged abuses include violence during police interrogations, overcrowded detention conditions, and sexual violence against female detainees. The call was made during International Anti-Torture Day, with six national bodies pledging to enhance monitoring and victim support.

CNG to Become LPG Alternative, Here Are PGN's Preparations

State-owned gas company PGN has declared its readiness to support the government's push for compressed natural gas (CNG) as a substitute for 3 kg LPG cylinders. The company currently operates 14 CNG filling stations and possesses the technical capability for non-pipeline gas distribution. The initiative aims to reduce Indonesia's heavy reliance on imported LPG by utilising abundant domestic natural gas reserves.

Father of Suspect Taufik Hidayat Reveals Family Tragedies: Lost Wife to Stress, Son to Overdose

The father of Taufik Hidayat, a suspect in a high-profile case, has shared his family's harrowing story of multiple tragedies. Tata revealed that his youngest son died from a drug overdose, and his wife passed away after suffering from prolonged stress and mental health issues. The family's plight came to light during discussions with local officials in Bandung Regency.

Prasetyo Hadi Comments on Prabowo-Gibran Two-Term Discourse

State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi has declined to comment on speculation about President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka serving two terms. He emphasised that the government is currently focused on resolving pressing issues such as employment, teacher welfare, civil service reform, and industrial downstreaming. The remarks came as former President Joko Widodo began a political tour in Lampung.